Context:

Recently, scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovered a new species of Diplura, a primitive, wingless, soil-dwelling hexapod, in the eastern Himalayas. This marks a historic milestone in Indian entomology. Named Lepidocampa sikkimensis, it is the first species of Diplura to be described by an Indian research team, ending nearly five decades of stagnation in the study of this group in India.

Diplurans, commonly known as two-pronged bristletails, are blind, six-legged arthropods that play an important role in nutrient cycling and the preservation of soil structure.

About Lepidocampa sikkimensis:

Lepidocampa sikkimensis is a newly discovered species of Diplura found near Ravangla, Sikkim, by an Indian research team. It belongs to a primitive hexapod group. Previously, 17 species of Diplura had been recorded in India, all described by foreign researchers.

Morphological Distinctiveness: The species is identified by a unique arrangement of body scales, distinctive bristle patterns (chaetotaxy), and specialized appendages, which set it apart from other Diplura species.

Ecological Role: As blind, soil-dwelling hexapods, diplurans play a crucial role in maintaining soil health by contributing to nutrient cycling and preserving soil structure.

About the Zoological Survey of India:

Established in 1916 and headquartered in Kolkata, the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) is a premier organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Its objectives include:

• Taxonomic Research: Classification of species and maintenance of national zoological collections.
• Status Surveys: Monitoring endangered and threatened species.
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Conducting studies on ecosystems and biodiversity management.

ZSI operates 16 regional centers and integrates modern tools such as DNA barcoding, GIS, and scanning electron microscopy in its research. Its key publications include Fauna of India and various state-level faunal reports.

Conclusion:

This discovery enriches India’s understanding of soil fauna, highlights the ecological importance of lesser-known micro-arthropods, and strengthens the foundation for biodiversity conservation in the Himalayas.